Following four years of successful French language teaching, Spanish is now taught from Year two to Year six using a phonics-based approach. It is delivered by one of the schoolteachers who is fluent in the language.
The British Council agreed that the school’s approach, teamed with deepening the children’s understanding and application within international education and cultural contexts and our global curriculum, supported their achievement of the award of the Foundation International School Award by the British Council.
Moira Croskell, Headteacher of Dickleburgh Church of England Primary Academy said: “At Dickleburgh, we believe that learning a new language gives our pupils the skills and understanding they need to develop their aspirations and knowledge of the world as well as their understanding of their own culture and identity.”
She added: “We are fortunate to have our dedicated teacher Mrs Dunsmore, who is fluent in Spanish, within our team. Our teaching of Spanish is inclusive together with the aim of enhancing and broadening not only the pupils’ cultural awareness but also their oracy and literacy skills. And the pupils love it! We are delighted to be recognised by the British Council for the work we continue to do to develop our pupils’ cultural capital.”
Richard Cranmer, CEO of St Benet’s Multi Academy Trust said: “Creating a culture of aspiration for all is at the heart of our vision and the opportunities provided for the children at Dickleburgh to experience such a breadth of languages is wonderful. They will move onto High School with the confidence to continue this learning and develop their interest and understanding of the world beyond their locality.”
The British Council International School Award started in 1999 to recognise the schools leading the way in instilling and developing a global dimension into the learning experience of all children and young people.
